Doctors examining a patient's throat, providing expert tonsil care and treatment at Gold Standard Sleep & ENT clinic.

Tonsil Disorders and Treatment

at Gold Standard Sleep & ENT Clinic

Common Symptoms of Tonsil Disorders

In San Antonio's varied climate, tonsil issues can be particularly bothersome. Patients often report sore throat, which can be severe and persistent. Difficulty swallowing is common, sometimes accompanied by ear pain. Many experience swollen lymph nodes in the neck and jaw area. Fever is frequently reported, especially in cases of tonsillitis. Some patients notice white or yellow patches on the tonsils, indicating infection. Bad breath (halitosis) is another common complaint. In children, symptoms might include changes in voice quality, snoring, or sleep-disordered breathing. Our warm, humid climate can sometimes exacerbate bacterial and viral infections affecting the tonsils. Additionally, allergies common in our region can contribute to tonsil inflammation, potentially worsening symptoms or increasing susceptibility to infections.

Expert Diagnosis for Tonsil Conditions

At Gold Standard Sleep & ENT, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing tonsil conditions. We begin with a detailed medical history, paying attention to the frequency and severity of symptoms, as well as any patterns related to our local seasons or environmental factors. A thorough physical examination follows, including visual inspection of the throat and palpation of the neck to check for enlarged lymph nodes. In some cases, we may perform a throat culture to identify specific bacterial infections. For chronic or recurrent issues, we might recommend a sleep study, especially if sleep-disordered breathing is suspected. We also consider how San Antonio's allergen profile might be contributing to tonsil inflammation. Our goal is to provide an accurate diagnosis, considering both acute and chronic conditions common in our area.

Tonsillitis Treatment and Tonsil Removal Surgery

Gold Standard Sleep & ENT offers a range of treatments tailored to address tonsil issues prevalent in San Antonio. For many patients with acute tonsillitis, we may prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected. We often recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to manage symptoms. Gargling with warm salt water can provide relief and is particularly soothing in our dry seasons. For chronic or recurrent tonsillitis, we discuss the option of tonsillectomy, taking into account the patient's overall health and the impact of symptoms on quality of life. In cases of sleep-disordered breathing related to enlarged tonsils, we may recommend tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. We also provide guidance on managing tonsil health in San Antonio's climate, including strategies to stay hydrated during hot summers and ways to mitigate the impact of seasonal allergies on tonsil inflammation.

When to Seek Care for Tonsil Issues

We encourage you to schedule an appointment with Gold Standard Sleep & ENT if you're experiencing recurrent episodes of tonsillitis (more than 5-7 episodes in a year) or if your tonsil issues are significantly impacting your quality of life. If you notice persistent sore throat lasting more than a week, especially if accompanied by fever or difficulty swallowing, it's important to seek medical attention. For parents, if your child is experiencing frequent throat infections, snoring, or showing signs of sleep apnea, a consultation with our ENT specialists is recommended. Additionally, if you notice any unusual growths or persistent asymmetry in your tonsils, it's crucial to have this evaluated. For those new to San Antonio or experiencing a change in the frequency or severity of tonsil issues since moving here, a visit to Gold Standard Sleep & ENT can help address how our local environment might be affecting your tonsil health.